Determination of antioxidant constituents in cactus pear fruits

Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. - anticancer properties and phytochemicals: current trends and future perspectives

Cancer is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and conventional cancer therapies such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy often result in undesirable and adverse effects. Natural products have emerged as a promising alternative for cancer treatment, with comparatively fewer side effects reported. Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill., a member of the Cactaceae family, contains a diverse array of phytochemicals, including flavonoids, polyphenols, betalains, and tannins, which have been shown to exhibit potent anticancer properties. Various parts of the Opuntia plant, including the fruits, stems/cladodes, and roots, have demonstrated cytotoxic effects against malignant cell lines in numerous studies. This review comprehensively summarizes the anticancer attributes of the phytochemicals found in Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill., highlighting their potential as natural cancer prevention and treatment agents. Bibliometric metric analysis of PubMed and Scopus-retrieved data using VOSviewer as well as QDA analysis provide further insights and niche to be explored. Most anticancer studies on Opuntia ficus-indica and its purified metabolites are related to colorectal/colon cancer, followed by melanoma and breast cancer. Very little attention has been paid to leukemia, thyroid, endometrial, liver, and prostate cancer, and it could be considered an opportunity for researchers to explore O. ficus-indica and its metabolites against these cancers. The most notable mechanisms expressed and validated in those studies are apoptosis, cell cycle arrest (G0/G1 and G2/M), Bcl-2 modulation, antiproliferative, oxidative stress-mediated mechanisms, and cytochrome c. We have also observed that cladodes and fruits of O. ficus-indica have been more studied than other plant parts, which again opens the opportunity for the researchers to explore. Further, cell line-based studies dominated, and very few studies were related to animal-based experiments. The Zebrafish model is another platform to explore. However, it seems like more in-depth studies are required to ascertain clinical utility of this biosustainable resource O. ficus-indica.

Application of a Simplex-Centroid Mixture Design to Evaluate the Phenolic Compound Content and Antioxidant Potential of Plants Grown in Mexico

Nowadays, the food and health industries are generating new products with antioxidant potential; among them are those rich in phenolic compounds that have a beneficial impact on human health. Therefore, the aim of this research was to obtain different types of mixtures from Portulaca oleraceae (P), Chenopodium album (C), Opuntia oligacantha Förster var. Ulapa (O), and Amaranthus tricolor (A) and evaluate the content of total phenols, total flavonoids, and antioxidant potential in order to select the mixture with the highest content of phenolic compounds. An experimental simplex-centroid mixture design with 15 experimental treatments was used; the data were analyzed and adjusted to a quadratic model that allowed for the prediction of the content of phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenz-thiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) of different experimental mixtures. The results show that the individual components of C and P had the highest content of phenols and antioxidant potential. It was observed that the binary mixtures P-C and P-A presented values of total phenols greater than 11 mg of gallic acid equivalents g-1 DW and values of flavonoids greater than 13 mg of quercetin equivalents g-1 DW. These values were higher than those found in the individual components. The P-C mixture with an antioxidant potential of 66.0 ± 0.07 Trolox equivalents g-1 DW could be used as an additive in food or to obtain a functional food that improves the intake of antioxidant compounds in the population.

Physicochemical, Nutritional, and Medicinal Properties of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. and Its Main Agro-Industrial Use: A Review

The cactus, Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. (OFI) belongs to the Cactaceae family, which contains about 130 genera and nearly 1600 species. This review aims to evaluate this plant from several perspectives, namely, botanic, physicochemical, nutritional, and medicinal properties, as well as agro-industrial use. The botanical aspects and morphological characteristics of OFI enable genetic variability, ecological adaptation, and broad geographic distribution. Due to its physicochemical and nutritional composition, it has several medicinal properties appropriate (or suitable) for several industries, such as pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetics. Its fruit, the prickly pear (PP), has potential agro-industrial expansion through the application of different conservation and transformation methods, making it possible to obtain a variety of products. The PP is a source of several nutrients and is an effective system to produce varied foods, which have several advantages from a nutritional, sensory, economic, and shelf-life point of view.

Opuntia ficus-indica Fruit: A Systematic Review of Its Phytochemicals and Pharmacological Activities

The use of Opuntia ficus-indica fruits in the agro-food sector is increasing for a multiplicity of players. This renewed interest is, in part, due to its organoleptic characteristics, nutritional value and health benefits. Furthermore, industries from different sectors intend to make use of its vast array of metabolites to be used in different fields. This trend represents an economic growth opportunity for several partners who could find new opportunities exploring non-conventional fruits, and such is the case for Opuntia ficus-indica. O. ficus-indica originates from Mexico, belongs to the Cactaceae family and is commonly known as opuntia, prickly pear or cactus pear. The species produces flowers, cladodes and fruits that are consumed either in raw or in processed products. Recent publications described that consumption of the fruit improves human health, exhibiting antioxidant activity and other relevant pharmacological activities through enzymatic and non-enzymatic mechanisms. Thus, we provide a systematic, scientific and rational review for researchers, consumers and other relevant stakeholders regarding the chemical composition and biological activities of O. ficus-indica fruits.

Phytochemical profiling, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities of hydroethanolic extracts of prickly pear ( Opuntia ficus indica ) fruit and pulp

Phenolic compounds in prickly pear [Opuntia ficus indica (L.) Mill.] are known to contribute to the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the prickly pear. The present study aimed to evaluate the antioxidants and in vitro antimicrobial potential in the hydroethanolic extracts of different parts (fruit, cladode, and pulp) of prickly pear. Different polyphenolic compounds were analyzed by using high-performance liquid chromatography. The results indicated that cladode possessed a higher quantity of phenolics compared with that observed in fruit and pulp. The most important phenolic compound in high quantity was gallic acid (66.19 μg/g) in cladode. The 100% aqueous extract of cladode exhibited the highest antioxidant (92%) and antimicrobial activities against Salmonella typhi (3.40 mg/ml), Helicobacter pylori (1.37 mg/ml), Escherichia coli (1.41 mg/ml), and Staphylococcus aureus (1.41 mg/ml). Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that antioxidant activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) responses had a significant negative correlation with each other. Overall, the current results provided basic data for choosing prickly pear cladode with high antioxidant capacity for the development and consumption of antioxidant-based alternative medicines and value addition of formulated foods.

Molecular and Antioxidant Characterization of Opuntia robusta Fruit Extract and Its Protective Effect against Diclofenac-Induced Acute Liver Injury in an In Vivo Rat Model

A molecular characterization of the main phytochemicals and antioxidant activity of Opuntia robusta (OR) fruit extract was carried out, as well as an evaluation of its hepatoprotective effect against diclofenac (DF)-induced acute liver injury was evaluated. Phenols, flavonoids and betalains were quantified, and antioxidant characterization was performed by means of the ABTS^•+, DPPH and FRAP assays. UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS was used to identify the main biocompounds present in OR fruit extract was carried out via. In the in vivo model, groups of rats were treated prophylactically with the OR fruit extract, betanin and N-acteylcysteine followed by a single dose of DF. Biochemical markers of oxidative stress (MDA and GSH) and relative gene expression of the inducible antioxidant response (Nrf2, Sod2, Hmox1, Nqo1 and Gclc), cell death (Casp3) and DNA repair (Gadd45a) were analyzed. Western blot analysis was performed to measure protein levels of Nrf2 and immunohistochemical analysis was used to assess caspase-3 activity in the experimental groups. In our study, the OR fruit extract showed strong antioxidant and cytoprotective capacity due to the presence of bioactive compounds, such as betalain and phenols. We conclude that OR fruit extract or selected components can be used clinically to support patients with acute liver injury.

Hepatoprotective Effect of Opuntia robusta Fruit Biocomponents in a Rat Model of Thioacetamide-Induced Liver Fibrosis

Liver fibrosis is a chronic disease associated with oxidative stress that has a great impact on the population mortality. Due to their antioxidant capacity, we evaluated the protective effect of Opuntia robusta fruit (Or) on liver fibrosis. A nutraceutical characterization of Or was performed and a model of fibrosis was induced with thioacetamide (TAA) in Wistar rats. Aminotransferases, reduced glutathione (GSH) and histopathology were evaluated. Or contained 436.5 ± 57 mg of Betacyanins equivalents/L., 793 mg of catechin equivalents (CAE)/100 g for flavonoids, 1118 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/100 g for total phenols, 141.14 mg/100 g for vitamin C and 429.9 μg/100 g for vitamin E. The antioxidant capacity of Or was: 2.27 mmol of Trolox® equivalents (TE)/L (DPPH), 62.2 ± 5.0 μmol TE/g (ABTS•+), 80.2 ± 11.7 μmol TE/g (FRAP), 247.9 ± 15.6 µmol TE/g (AAPH) and 15.0% of H2O2 elimination. An increase (p < 0.05) of aminotransferases and a decrease (p < 0.05) of hepatic GSH was observed in the TAA group compared to the control and the concomitant groups. Histopathology showed changes in the normal architecture of the liver treated with TAA compared to the concomitant treatments. Or contains bioactive components with antioxidant capacity, which can reduce fibrotic liver damage.

Opuntia spp. as Alternative Fodder for Sustainable Livestock Production

During the past decades, livestock production has increased significantly, which has led to the degradation of rangelands due to overgrazing. The lack of water in several arid areas has led to a decline in crop and animal husbandry. As a consequence, the demand for drought-resistant crops has increased significantly so as to keep crop and animal husbandry systems viable and sustainable. Cactaceae have adaptive characteristics that ensure their development progress under drought conditions. The present review provides information on the nutritive value of Opuntia in animal fodder production, its effects on animal performance, and the quality of the animal-derived products. In conclusion, the use of Opuntia as innovative alternative feed would render animal production systems more sustainable.

Impact of the Cooking Process on Metabolite Profiling of Acanthocereus tetragonus, a Plant Traditionally Consumed in Mexico

Acanthocereus tetragonus (L.) Hummelinck is used as an alternative food source in some Mexican communities. It has been shown that the young stems of A. tetragonus provide crude protein, fiber, and essential minerals for humans. In this work, we analyzed the phytochemical profile, the total phenolic content (TPC), and the antioxidant activity of cooked and crude samples of A. tetragonus to assess its functional metabolite contribution to humans. The phytochemical profile was analyzed using Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled to High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-PDA-HESI-Orbitrap-MS/MS). Under the proposed conditions, 35 metabolites were separated and tentatively identified. Of the separated metabolites, 16 occurred exclusively in cooked samples, 6 in crude samples, and 9 in both crude and cooked samples. Among the detected compounds, carboxylic acids, such as threonic, citric, and malic acids, phenolic acids, and glycosylated flavonoids (luteolin-O-rutinoside) were detected. The TPC and antioxidant activity were analyzed using the Folin–Ciocalteu method and the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical inhibition method, respectively. The TPC and antioxidant activity were significantly reduced in the cooked samples. We found that some metabolites remained intact after the cooking process, suggesting that A. tetragonus represents a source of functional metabolites for people who consume this plant species.

Exploration of Betalains and Determination of the Antioxidant and Cytotoxicity Profile of Orange and Purple Opuntia spp. Cultivars in Greece

Replacing synthetic dyes with natural pigments has gained great attention over the past years in the food industry, due to the increased alertness of consumers for nontoxic and natural additives. Betalains are water-soluble nitrogenous natural pigments that are used as natural colorants in food industries, due to their applicability and their rich pharmacological profile including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Therefore, there is a need for a detailed exploration of betalains to fully exploit their properties. Opuntia spp. plants are one of the primary sources of betalains. The objective of this study was to identify betalain phytochemical content in prickly pear cactus of two different Opuntia species from Greece (an Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill (OFI) orange prickly pear cultivar and an Opuntia spp. purple prickly pear cultivar) using modern analytical techniques as also to evaluate their antioxidant and cytotoxicity profile. To achieve this we used an array of analytical techniques, including ultra-violet-vis (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) as also cell based in vitro assays. These enabled us to establish a rapid approach that can distinguish the different Opuntia spp. cultivars based on their phytochemical constituents through untargeted metabolomics analysis using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry - quadrupole time-of-flight (UPLC/MS Q-TOF). These findings could allow a further exploitation of Opuntia species and especially their enriched betalain phytochemical profile as viable source of natural food colorants.

Clinical Potential of Fruit in Bladder Cancer Prevention and Treatment

Bladder cancer (BC) is the most common tumor of the urinary system in the world. Moreover, despite using anticancer therapies, BC is also characterized by a high recurrence risk. Among numerous risk factors, cigarette smoking, occupational exposure to certain aromatic compounds, and genetic factors contribute most strongly to BC development. However, the epidemiological data to date suggests that diet quality may influence some carcinogenic factors of BC and, therefore, might have a preventative effect. Adequate consumption of selected fruits with scientifically proven properties, including pomegranates and cranberries, can significantly reduce the risk of developing BC, even in those at risk. Therefore, in this article, we aim to elucidate, using available literature, the role of fruits, including pomegranates, cranberries, citrus fruits, cactus pears, and apples, in BC prevention and treatment. Previous data indicate the role of compounds in the above-mentioned fruits in the modulation of the signaling pathways, including cell proliferation, cell growth, cell survival, and cell death.

Influence of Different Bacteria Inocula and Temperature Levels on the Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Prickly Pear Vinegar Produced by Surface Culture

This work intends to determine the effect on the aroma profile, phenolic content and antioxidant activity of prickly pear vinegars produced by the surface culture at two different fermentation temperatures and using different acetic acid bacteria (AAB) inocula. Prickly pear wine was fermented at two temperature levels (30 and 37 °C) by using bacteria inocula containing Acetobacter,&nbsp;Gluconobacter or a mixture of bacteria isolated from Sherry vinegars. Eighty-five individual volatile compounds from different families and sixteen polyphenolic compounds have been identified. It was confirmed that the highest temperature tested (37 °C) resulted in a lower concentration of volatile compounds, while no significant effect on the vinegars' volatile composition could be associated with the AAB inoculum used. Contrariwise, the highest content of polyphenolic compounds was detected in those vinegars produced at 37 °C and their concentration was also affected by the type of AAB inoculum used. Prickly pear wine displayed greater antioxidant activity than juices or vinegars, while the vinegars obtained through the mixture of AAB from Sherry vinegar showed higher antiradical activity than those obtained through either of the two AAB genera used in this study. It can be therefore concluded that, although the volatile content of vinegars decreased when fermented at a higher temperature, vinegars with a higher content in polyphenols could be obtained by means of partial fermentations at 37 °C, as long as thermotolerant bacteria were employed.

Chemical Characterization of Different Products from the Tunisian Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill

Various dried (by-)products from the Tunisian O. ficus-indica were elucidated for their proximate composition, fatty acid (FA) composition, inorganic elements, sugars, and polyphenols. Nopal and prickly pear peel and seeds were abundant in fiber (respectively, 28.39, 12.54, and 16.28%). Seeds had also high protein (17.34%) and may be source of an edible oil, due to lipids (9.65%) poor in saturated FAs (14.12%) and rich in linoleic acid (61.11%). Nopal and peel showed the highest levels of Mg (493.57 and 345.19 mg/100 g), K (6949.57 and 1820.83 mg/100 g), Mn (59.73 and 46.86 mg/Kg) and Fe (23.15 and 15.23 mg/Kg), while the fruit pulp predominantly constituted of sugars, glucose and arabinose being predominant (42.57 and 13.56 g/100 g). Total polyphenols widely varied among the Opuntia products (108.36–4785.36 mg GAE/100 g), being mainly represented by hydroxycinnamic and hydroxybenzoic acids, and flavonoids as well. In particular, peel may be revalorized for these valuable bioactives, including 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (484.95 mg/100 g), cinnamic acid (318.95 mg/100 g), rutin (818.94 mg/100 g), quercetin (605.28 mg/100 g), and several isorhamnetin and kaempferol glycosides. Overall, the Tunisian prickly pear cactus could encourage a sustainable production, an effective waste management, and may provide several benefits for human health, in accordance with the model of the Mediterranean diet.

Milk yield and composition, feed efficiency, haemato-biochemical parameters and antioxidant status of lactating ewes fed diet supplemented with prickly pear cactus peels

Prickly pear cactus peels (Opuntia ficus-indica, PPCP) are a powerful source of antioxidant components and available as a by-product in arid regions in large quantities. The current work investigated the effect of dietary supplementation of PPCP on feed efficiency, milk yield and composition, haematology, serum biochemical constituents and antioxidant status of lactating Barki ewes. Fifteen multiparous female Barki sheep (2-3 years old, body weight post partum 46.9 ± 0.59 kg) were individually and randomly distributed into three groups (five ewes each). The first group was the control without PPCP supplementation; the second and third groups were fed for 60 d diets supplemented with dried PPCP powder at daily doses of 5 and 10 g/ewe, respectively. The results revealed a significant increase in total dry matter intake (p ≤ 0.001) and numerical rise in total milk yield (p = 0.054) with PPCP addition at 5 g/ewe compared with the control group. The serum lipid profile was significantly altered by PPCP supplementation. Serum urea nitrogen decreased (p ≤ 0.001) with PPCP treatment. Antioxidant enzyme activities, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, were significantly increased (p ≤ 0.001) and the level of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances was significantly decreased (p ≤ 0.001) with increasing PPCP supplementation levels in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, supplementation with 5 g PPCP improved total dry matter intake, serum lipid profiles and antioxidant status in Barki ewes during lactation.

Adjunctive Nutraceutical Therapies for COVID-19

The novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19), is a worldwide pandemic, as declared by the World Health Organization (WHO). It is a respiratory virus that infects people of all ages. Although it may present with mild to no symptoms in most patients, those who are older, immunocompromised, or with multiple comorbidities may present with severe and life-threatening infections. Throughout history, nutraceuticals, such as a variety of phytochemicals from medicinal plants and dietary supplements, have been used as adjunct therapies for many disease conditions, including viral infections. Appropriate use of these adjunct therapies with antiviral proprieties may be beneficial in the treatment and/or prophylaxis of COVID-19. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of nutraceuticals, such as vitamins C, D, E, zinc, melatonin, and other phytochemicals and function foods. These nutraceuticals may have potential therapeutic efficacies in fighting the threat of the SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 pandemic.

Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill.: A Multi-Benefit Potential to Be Exploited

Consumer interest in foods with enhanced nutritional quality has increased in recent years. The nutritional and bioactive characterization of fruits and their byproducts, as well as their use in the formulation of new food products, is advisable, contributing to decrease the global concerns related to food waste and food security. Moreover, the compounds present in these raw materials and the study of their biological properties can promote health and help to prevent some chronic diseases. Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. (prickly pear) is a plant that grows wild in the arid and semi-arid regions of the world, being a food source for ones and a potential for others, but not properly valued. This paper carries out an exhaustive review of the scientific literature on the nutritional composition and bioactive compounds of prickly pear and its constituents, as well as its main biological activities and applications. It is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins and bioactive compounds. Many of its natural compounds have interesting biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic and antimicrobial. The antioxidant power of prickly pear makes it a good candidate as an ingredient of new food products with fascinating properties for health promotion and/or to be used as natural extracts for food, pharmaceutic or cosmetic applications. In addition, it could be a key player in food security in many arid and semi-arid regions of the world, where there are often no more plants.

Opuntia ficus indica Fruits Ameliorate Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Mice

This study aims to determine the potential renal protective effects of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller (OFI) fruits against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in mice. The antioxidant activity of OFI methanol extract was calculated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) free radical scavenging assays. Furthermore, the LC-mass spectroscopy (MS) analysis of the OFI fruit extract was carried out. Mice were treated with OFI extract (250 mg/kg) for 10 d and injected with a single dose of cisplatin (20 mg/kg) on the 7th day. The blood samples were collected to measure blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine level on the 10th day. Their kidneys were removed for histopathological examination. The renal morphological alterations were assessed through the mesangial matrix index and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The OFI fruit extract showed significant in vitro antioxidant activity. In further, it was revealed that the cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in mice was ameliorated; this outcome was supported by both histological examination results and the depicted reduced levels of BUN and serum creatinine. The potent antioxidant compounds which were detected in the extract of OFI fruits such as myricetin, quercetin, luteolin might be responsible for the observed renoprotective effect. The results clarified that the OFI fruit extract could ameliorate cisplatin-induced renal toxicity in mice via including antioxidant and renoprotective compounds.

Pasta Supplemented with Opuntia ficus-indica Extract Improves Metabolic Parameters and Reduces Atherogenic Small Dense Low-Density Lipoproteins in Patients with Risk Factors for the Metabolic Syndrome: A Four-Week Intervention Study

Food supplementation with Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) has been associated with a significant reduction in total cholesterol, body fat, hyperglycemia and blood pressure. Since OFI may also have antioxidant and anti-atherogenic properties, we hypothesized that its supplementation might reduce atherogenic lipoproteins, including small, dense low-density lipoproteins (sdLDL). Forty-nine patients (13 men and 36 women, mean age: 56 ± 5 years) with one or two criteria for the metabolic syndrome weekly consumed 500 g of pasta supplemented with 3% OFI extract (30% of insoluble polysaccharides with high antioxidant power) for 1 month. The full LDL subclass profile was assessed by gel electrophoresis (Lipoprint, Quantimetrix, Redondo Beach, CA, USA). After 1 month of pasta supplementation, waist circumference (p = 0.0297), plasma glucose (p < 0.0001), triglycerides (p = 0.0137), plasma creatinine (p = 0.0244), urea and aspartate transaminase (p < 0.0001 for each) significantly decreased. A percentage increase in larger, less atherogenic LDL-1 (p = 0.0002), with a concomitant reduction in smaller, denser LDL-2 (p < 0.0001) and LDL-3 (p = 0.0004), were found. LDL-4 and-5 decreased, although not significantly. This is the first intervention study suggesting that pasta enriched with an OFI extract may have beneficial effects on some metabolic parameters and the LDL particle sizes, reducing atherogenic sdLDL. Future studies will help to establish if these findings impact cardiovascular outcomes.

In vitro gastrointestinal stability, bioaccessibility and potential biological activities of betalains and phenolic compounds in cactus berry fruits (Myrtillocactus geometrizans)

Cactus berry (Myrtillocactus geometrizans) is a scarcely studied Mexican wild fruit. These fruits could contribute to reduce the risk of degenerative chronic diseases due to their bioactive profile. The aim of this work was to study the betalains and phenolic profile in cactus berry, their in vitro biological activities and gastrointestinal digestive stability and bioaccessibility. 43 metabolites were identified by HPLC-DAD-ESI-QTOF (8 betaxanthins, 8 betacyanins, 13 flavonoids, 6 phenolic acids). Phyllocactin and Isorhamnetin rhamnosyl-rutinoside (IG2) were the most abundant metabolites (5876 and 396 µg/g dw) which were also bioaccessible (16 and 21%, respectively). Pulps showed higher (p ≤ 0.05) antioxidant activity by the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (27 mM Trolox equivalents). The anti-hyperglycemic activity was highest (p ≤ 0.05) in peel and pulp tissues (85% α-glucosidase and 8% α-amylase inhibition). An 83% inhibition of hyaluronidase showed high anti-inflammatory activity. Cactus berry fruit should be considered a promising fruit candidate for a sustainable healthy diet.

A Review on Opuntia Species and its Chemistry, Pharmacognosy, Pharmacology and Bioapplications

Background:

Opuntia species, locally known as prickly pear was used for various purposes as food, medicine, beverage, source of dye and animal food. Many studies have revealed its pharmacology activity from time to time. This review is a collection of chemistry, pharmacognosy, pharmacology and bioapplications of the cactus family.

Methods:

Many sources were used to collect information about Opuntia species such as Pub med, Google scholar, Agris, science direct, Embase, Merk index, Wiley online library, books and other reliable sources. This review contains studies from 1812 to 2019.

Results:

The plants from the cactus family offer various pharmacological active compounds including phenolic compounds, carotenoids, betalains, vitamins, steroids, sugar, amino acids, minerals and fibers. These bioactive compounds serve various pharmacological activities such as anticancer, antiviral, anti-diabetic, Neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, Hepatoprotective, antibacterial, antiulcer and alcohol hangover. According to various studies, Opuntia species offer many bioapplications such as fodder for animal, soil erosion, prevention, human consumption and waste water decontamination. Finally, different parts of plants are used in various formulations that offer many biotechnology applications.

Conclusion:

Different parts of Opuntia plant (fruits, seeds, flowers and cladodes) are used in various health problems which include wound healing, anti-inflammatory and urinary tract infection from ancient times. Nowadays, researches have extended several pharmacological and therapeutic uses of Opuntia species as discussed in this review. Many in-vitro and in-vivo models are also discussed in this review as the proofs of research findings. Various research gaps have been observed in current studies that require attention in the future.

Characterization of Prickly Pear Peel Flour as a Bioactive and Functional Ingredient in Bread Preparation

The aim of the present research was to evaluate the addition of prickly pear peel flour (PPPF) to bread dough as a source of nutrient and bioactive compounds. The PPPF’s physical, chemical and nutritional composition was evaluated, as well as its content of bioactive compounds betalains, and flavonoids. The characterization evidenced high fiber and carbohydrate contents and an elevated amount of polyphenols and betalain compounds. The PPPF was then added at different concentrations (5, 10, 15, 20, 50%, w/w) to bread formulations as a potential functional ingredient. All concentrations, except 50% PPPF, evidenced good leavening dough properties and were then tested for baking. In relation to the content of added PPPF, the amount of betalains, representing bioactive compounds, remained high even after the baking process, suggesting a protective matrix effect. Among the different formulations, those containing PPPF at 10% showed the highest values in terms of the leavening dough capacity and bread specific volume and received the best sensory evaluation score.

Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Semi-Processed Frozen Prickly Pear Juice as Affected by Cultivar and Harvest Time

Consumer interest toward natural ingredients is creating a growing trend in the food industry and research for the development of natural products such as colorants, antimicrobials and antioxidants. Semi-processed frozen prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill.) juices (PPJs), obtained from three cultivars with white, red and yellow pulp, with different harvest times ("Agostani" and "Bastardoni"), were characterized for betalains, total phenolics, flavonoids, carotenoids, antioxidant capacity (by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH)) and antimicrobial potential against foodborne pathogenic bacteria. Through chemical assays, PPJs showed high contents of total polyphenols, flavonoids and betalains and marked antioxidant capacity. PPJs from the first harvest ("Agostani") revealed the significantly highest amount of polyphenols in white cultivar and of betacyanin and betaxanthin in yellow and red cultivars; antioxidant capacity was significantly higher in "Agostani" PPJs than in "Bastardoni" ones. Regarding antimicrobial potential, all PPJs revealed good antibacterial activity, particularly against Salmonella enterica as evidenced by the widest inhibition haloes. These results encourage the suitability of the first flowering prickly pear fruits, with low market value as fresh fruit but with high nutritional features, to be processed as semi-finished product. In particular, its use as ingredient in foods with high risk of Salmonella contamination may act as a natural preservative.

Effect of Ultrafiltration of Pitaya Extract (Stenocereus thurberi) on Its Phytochemical Content, Antioxidant Capacity, and UPLC-DAD-MS Profile

Stenocereus thurberi is an endemic species in northwestern Mexico. It produces colorful fruits called pitayas that have an edible pulp. They have phytochemical compounds associated with biological activities. Ultrafiltration is a widely used method for the clarification of fruit juices and the recovery of phytochemicals. However, its effect has not been extensively studied in extracts. Therefore, the objective of this work is to study the effect of the ultrafiltration of pitaya extract (Stenocereus thurberi) on its phytochemical content, antioxidant capacity, and identification of phenolic compounds by UPLC-DAD-MS, providing greater knowledge about the pitaya. In this study, two extracts were analyzed, the unclarified extract (UE) and the clarified extract (CE). The antioxidant capacity was higher in the CE with 15.93 ± 0.42 mM TE/g, DPPH and 18.37 ± 0.016 mM TE/g, ABTS. The UPLC-MS analysis indicated the decrease in phenolic compounds in the CE and the presence of gallic acid and resorcinol, compounds that had not been identified in other species of Stenocereus spp. The correlation analysis indicated that all the phytochemicals present in the pitaya contribute significantly to the antioxidant capacity. The ultrafiltration process could be a viable option to improve the biological activity of the natural extracts.

Identificación de propiedades presentes en jugo de Opuntia megacantha Salm-Dyck importantes para la producción de biopolímeros

Con el objetivo de identificar las propiedades químicas y los antioxidantes de interés en la industria de los biopolímeros se realizó la caracterización química del jugo de cuatro variantes de cladodios de Opuntia megacantha; las variantes presentan dos grados de madurez (tiernos y maduros) y dos manejos diferentes durante su desarrollo (silvestres y cultivados). El grado de madurez de los cladodios fue estadísticamente significativo (p ≤ 0.05), el jugo de los cladodios maduros presentó mayor cantidad de fibra cruda y material libre de nitrógeno, el jugo de cladodios tiernos contiene mayor cantidad de proteína, extracto etéreo y cenizas. No existió diferencia estadística significativa (p = 0.6917), en el contenido de los fenoles en las cuatro variantes se obtuvieron concentraciones entre 165.6 y 176.6 mg GAE/mL; (2.18 y 3.61 mg GAE/g en peso seco). Los jugos de los cladodios maduros contienen mayor cantidad de los diferentes azúcares cuantificados (p ≤ 0.05). Se prepararon películas de biopolímero utilizando jugo clarificado de cladodios silvestres tiernos para determinar su resistencia a la tensión con un resultado de 1.42 MPa, módulo de Young de 1.77 MPa y elongación a la rotura de 124.16%; se concluye que los jugos caracterizados en este trabajo pueden ofrecer una alternativa viable a los polímeros derivados del petróleo.

Comparative UHPLC-HRMS Profiling, Toxicological Assessment, and Protection Against H2O2-Induced Genotoxicity of Different Parts of Opuntia ficus indica

Opuntia ficus indica has been an important dietary source and a traditionally used medicinal plant. Given the promising health-promoting properties of this plant, a comparative toxicological assessment and antioxidant bioevaluation of extracts from different parts of the plant were carried out in relation to their chemical profile. Toxicity was examined at multiple endpoints using the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT), Comet and the γH2AX In-Cell Western Assay, while hyphenated ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS) analysis was carried out to identify main constituents. None of the extracts showed any cytotoxic and genotoxic effect on cell lines used, apart from the flower extract in HepG2 cells at the highest concentration tested (2.5 mg/mL). Both fruit flesh and seed extracts demonstrated a prominent protective effect against H₂O₂-induced genotoxicity in almost all concentrations tested, while extracts originated from flowers and cladodes were effective only at the low non-cytotoxic (0.312 and 0.625 mg/mL) and high (1.25 and 2.5 mg/mL) concentrations, respectively. In total, 2 phenolic acids, 12 flavonoids, along with 3 feruloyl derivatives and the plant pigment indicaxanthin, were tentatively identified by UHPLC-HRMS analysis. Phenolic acids (compounds 1 and 2) were mainly distributed in cladodes (64.6%), while flavonoids (3-14) in the flowers (81.8%). Overall, the highest amount of total flavonoids (22.76 ± 0.015 mg of quercetin equivalent [QE]/g) and total phenolics (62.80 ± 0.009 mg gallic acid equivalents [GAE]/g) was found in the flower extract. Flavonoid glycosides have not been detected in the seeds and the flesh, while the fruit seed extract contained mainly feruloyl derivatives. Our data provide convincing evidences for the lack of cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of O. ficus indica aqueous extracts and, in parallel, support the potential for further exploitation of this plant in the food supplement or functional food sector.

The effect of harvest times on bioactive properties and fatty acid compositions of prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-barbarica A. Berger) fruits

In the study, the impact of harvest time on total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and phenolic compounds of prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-barbarica A. Berger) fruit pulp and the oil content and fatty acids profile of the seed were investigated. The highest total phenolic content was determined as 156.77 mg/100 g in July 1 harvest, while the maximum antioxidant activity and total oil content were found as 9.81% and 6.80% at the last stage of maturation (15 August), respectively. The highest oleic (28.51%), palmitic (22.61%) and stearic acid contents (9.20%) in seed oil were observed in June 15 harvest. The highest value for linoleic acid (57.50%) was detected in August 15 harvest. Prickly pear is a vital source of bioactive constituents such as phenolic and antioxidant substances in terms of being useful for human health and the optimum harvesting time to retain high quantities of most phenolic compounds is 1st July.

Characterization of prickly pear juice by means of shelf life, sensory notes, physicochemical parameters and bio-functional properties

ABSTRACT

The objective of the present work was to characterize prickly pear juice prepared from prickly pear fruits of the wild cultivar in terms of shelf life (air and vacuum packaging), sensory stability (odour, taste, and appearance) physicochemical parameters (acidity, vitamin C, pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, specific weight, total sugar content, and colour coordinates L*, a*, b*) and bio-functional properties [in vitro antioxidant activity (AA%) and total phenolic content (TPC)]. For this purpose fruits were collected during August 2017 from 3 different geographical zones in Peloponnese. The shelf life of prickly juice was extended by 5 days in vacuum compared to air packaging, whereas it was found to be a rich source of phytochemicals and a natural antioxidant agent (AA of 67.33 ± 5.89-75.63 ± 4.41% and TPC of 3234.5 ± 978.2-7592.1 ± 2441.0 mg GAE L^-1), in relation to fruit geographical origin (P < 0.05). The exploitation of prickly pear juice is really a challenge.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Effects of the Consumption of Prickly Pear Cacti (Opuntia spp.) and its Products on Blood Glucose Levels and Insulin: A Systematic Review

Background and Objectives: There is confusion as to which component of the Opuntia spp. cacti has demonstrated anti-hyperglycemic effects or anti-diabetic properties. It is important to clarify these health benefits due to the increasing need for prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. The aim of this review is to identify the effects of Opuntia spp. cacti consumption on biomedical measures; glucose and insulin with consideration of its’ components; fruit, leaf and combined or unidentified Opuntia spp. products. Materials and Methods: Prior to commencing the searches, this systematic review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42018108765). Following the PRISMA 2009 guidelines, six electronic databases (Food Science and Technology Abstracts (EBSCO), Medline, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science and Cochrane) were searched for articles investigating the effect of Opuntia spp. consumption on glucose and insulin in humans. Results: Initially, 335 articles were sourced and filtered by exclusion criteria (human interventions, control trials and articles published in English) resulting in 20 relevant articles. The included studies were characterized by such plant components as fruit (n = 4), cladode (n = 12), and other Opuntia spp. products (n = 4), further separated by clinical populations (‘healthy’, hyperlipidemic, hypercholesterolemic, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus). The findings of this review indicate variations in effects between cacti components and products. Cladode and select Opuntia spp. products predominately demonstrated significant reductions in serum glucose and insulin, indicating potential as a functional food candidate. Prickly Pear fruit was predominately reported to have no significant effects on glucose or insulin. The quality of evidence appeared to vary based on the type of Opuntia spp. product used. Studies that used specifically the fruit or cladode had high risk of bias, whereas studies which used combined Opuntia spp. products had a lower risk of bias. Numerous mechanisms of action were proposed where positive findings were reported, with emphasis on dualistic glucose-dependent and independent actions, however, mechanisms require further elucidation. Conclusion: Currently, there is a lack of evidence to support the recommendation of using Opuntia spp. fruit products as an alternative or complementary therapy in the reduction of risk or management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. The Cladode does however show promise in potential glucose-lowering effects which warrant further investigation.

Antioxidant activity of Vitis vinifera, Punica granatum, Citrus aurantium and Opuntia ficus indica fruits cultivated in Algeria

Four edible fruits from Vitis vinifera, Punica granatum, Citrus aurantium and Opuntia ficus indica from Algeria were analyzed in order to determine the total polyphenol, total flavonoid and flavonol contents using classical spectrophotometric methods. The antioxidant activity was established by three different single-electron-transfer-based assays (ABTS radical cation, FRAP, and DPPH assays) and one hydrogen-atom-transfer based assay (ORAC). Among the four fruits tested, the Vitis vinifera hydroalcoholic extract showed the highest antioxidant capacity with all methods. The results indicated that the antioxidant activity and the total phenolic content of the selected plants are significantly different (p < 0.001).

Thermoprotective properties of Opuntia ficus-indica f. inermis cladodes and mesocarps on sheep lymphocytes

This study aims to investigate the thermoprotective properties of Opuntia ficus-indica f. inermis. Extracts were prepared from cladodes (CE) and mesocarps (ME), then subjected to a spectrophotometric and LC-MS analyses. Lymphocytes were isolated from peripheral blood of non-stressed sheep, supplemented with CE, ME, betanin or α-tocopherol, and subjected to two thermal treatments: 40 and 41 °C, for 6 h. Viable lymphocytes and H₂O₂ production were evaluated. The antioxidant activity of ME was 3.43 folds higher than CE. The LC-MS analysis of CE and ME allowed identifying 11 phenolic acids, 2 flavanones, 6 flavones, 3 flavonols and 1 betanin type betacyanin. Lymphocytes mortality increased linearly as function of the severity and the duration of heat stress. This mortality was correlated with H₂O₂ production. At 41 °C, only ME allowed maintaining lymphocytes viability. Moreover, ME was more efficient than CE in reducing H₂O₂ production. This thermoprotection was ensured by betaxanthin and betacyanin pigments. Interestingly, betanin was more efficient than α-tocopherol in preventing hyperthermia-induced lymphocytes' mortality. We report here for the first time the thermoprotective properties of cladodes and mesocarps of Opuntia ficus-indica f. inermis. Betanin was able to maintain lymphocyte viability through reducing H₂O₂ production, and therefore the oxidative-induced heat stress.

Inhibitory and Inductive Effects of Opuntia ficus indica Extract and Its Flavonoid Constituents on Cytochrome P450s and UDP-Glucuronosyltransferases

Opuntia ficus indica (OFI) is grown abundantly in arid areas and its fruits are regarded as an important food and nutrient source owing to the presence of flavonoids, minerals, and proteins. The previous report that OFI exerts phytoestrogenic activity makes it plausible for OFI-containing supplements to be used as alternative estrogen replacement therapy. In the case of polypharmacy with the consumption of OFI-containing botanicals in post- or peri-menopausal women, it is critical to determine the potential drug-OFI interaction due to the modulation of drug metabolism. In the present study, the modulating effects on the hepatic drug metabolizing enzymes (DMEs) by OFI and its flavonoid constituents (kaempferol, quercetin, isorhamnetin, and their glycosidic forms) were investigated using the liver microsomal fractions prepared from ovariectomized (OVX) rats, human liver microsomes, and human hepatocarcinoma cell line (HepG2). As a result, the oral administration of extracts of OFI (OFIE) in OVX rats induced hepatic CYP2B1, CYP3A1, and UGT2B1. OFIE, hydrolyzed (hdl) OFIE, and several flavonols induced the transcriptional activities of both CYP2B6 and CYP3A4 genes in HepG2 cells. Finally, OFIE did not inhibit activities of cytochrome P450 (CYPs) or uridine diphosphate (UDP)-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs), whereas hdl OFIE or flavonol treatment inhibited CYP1A2 and CYP3A1/3A4 in rat and human liver microsomes. Our data demonstrate that OFIE may induce or inhibit certain types of DMEs and indicate that drug-OFI interaction may occur when the substrate or inhibitor drugs of specific CYPs or UGTs are taken concomitantly with OFI-containing products.

Microencapsulation of Purple Cactus Pear Fruit (Opuntia ficus indica) Extract by the Combined Method W/O/W Double Emulsion-Spray Drying and Conventional Spray Drying: A Comparative Study

The aim of this study was to microencapsulate an optimized extract of purple cactus pear fruit (Opuntia ficus indica), rich in phenolic compounds (PC), betacyanins (BC), and betaxanthins (BX), with antioxidant capacity (AC), by two methodologies: combined water-in-oil-in water double emulsions-spray drying (W/O/W-SP) and conventional spray drying, studying the effect of spray drying (SP) on PC and AC. Optimal extraction conditions for bioactive compounds were: 52 °C, for 30 min, using aqueous ethanol (40%) as the solvent, with a 0.85 desirability function, obtaining 17.39 ± 0.11 mg GAE/gdw (gallic acid equivalents per gram of dry weight) for PC, 0.35 mg BE/gdw (betanin equivalents per gram of dry weight) for BC, and 0.26 mg IE/gdw (indicaxanthin equivalents per gram of dry weight) for BX. The best combination of temperatures for conventional SP and W/O/W-SP was 160–80 °C obtaining the highest retention and encapsulation efficiencies for PC. For conventional SP, results were: 107% and 100% PC and AC retention efficiencies (RE-PC and RE-AC), respectively, with 97% of PC encapsulation efficiency (EE-PC), meanwhile for the W/O/W-SP results were: 78% and 103% RE-PC and RE-AC, respectively, with 70% of EE-PC. Microcapsules obtained with W/O/W-SP maintained their structure and integrity and showed a considerable reduction in globule size in the reconstituted W/O/W emulsions due to the spray drying stress. Despite having lower EE-PC than conventional SP, spray dried W/O/W emulsions seems to be a promising controlled-delivery vehicle for antioxidant compounds.

Dielectric Properties of Beverages (Tamarind and Green) Relevant to Microwave-Assisted Pasteurization

Dielectric properties (DPs) of two beverages, tamarind and a green drink (based on mix fruits of pineapple, guava, lemon, and nopal), were studied. The DPs were determined using the open-ended coaxial probe method in the frequency range from 0.25 to 25 GHz at 10, 30, 50, and 70 °C. The dielectric constant decreased when both frequency and temperature increased above 1000 MHz. For both beverages, the dielectric loss factor increased with increasing frequency and increasing temperature. In addition, dielectric constant values ranged from 59.7 to 82.5, and the dielectric loss factors were between 5.8 and 31.1. The penetration depth (d_p ) of electromagnetic waves in the beverages increased proportionally to temperature at frequencies above 1000 MHz; d_p values ranged from 0.2 to 7.5 cm. Because of its complexity and the amount of ingredients and the interactions between them, the green drink showed higher values of dielectric constants in comparison with the tamarind beverage.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

The dielectric properties of the studied beverages, how they behave at different temperatures, and the penetration depth reached by microwave at the allocated frequencies, provide important parameters for further heating treatments, such as heating (microwave-assisted pasteurization) and for modeling/simulation purposes.